Engadget RSS Feed http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2013 AOL Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ <![CDATA[Korg announces Volca analog synth series, we go eyes-on]]> http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/11/korg-announces-volca-analog-synth-series-we-go-eyes-on/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/11/korg-announces-volca-analog-synth-series-we-go-eyes-on/ http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/11/korg-announces-volca-analog-synth-series-we-go-eyes-on/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Korg announces Volca analog synth series, we go eyeson

Korg's love of the mini-analog synth clearly remains strong as it's added three more new ones to the fold -- the Volca Beat, Volca Bass and Volca Keys (the clue to what they do is in the names). While some firms take a pro product and work down, making cheaper versions, Korg seems to take a different approach. It did the stripping-back thing when it launched its popular Monotron synth. Since then, it's incrementally developed it back up into a whole category of its own, the latest iteration of which we apparently see before us here. The trio of mini-synths clearly take inspiration from the Monotribe groovebox that came before them, but are a step up in terms of design. Brushed metal finishes give them a vintage, almost Stylophone feel. The Volca Bass, in particular, looks almost too much like the legendary Roland TB-303 to be coincidence, and if we didn't know better, we'd say the color scheme of the Beat echoes the TR-808. As we happened to be in Frankfurt, we couldn't resist getting out hands on them, or as you'll see past the break, at least trying to.

Gallery: Korg Volca series eyes-on

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]]> analogbassbeathands-onkeyskorgMusikmesse2013synthvideovolca Thu, 11 Apr 2013 05:44:00 -0400 21|20537167 <![CDATA[Skullcandy's Crusher headphones teased, soon to vibrate wubs into your head for $100]]> http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/08/skullcandy-skullcrusher-headphones-ces/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/08/skullcandy-skullcrusher-headphones-ces/ http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/08/skullcandy-skullcrusher-headphones-ces/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments DNP Skullcandy's Crusher headphones teased, soon to vibrate wubs into your head for $100

Skullcandy hasn't made any official headphone-related announcements at CES -- but that doesn't mean there isn't news to share. We've just been tipped about a bass-pumping followup to its now-defunct Skullcrusher headphones, set to release as the Crusher. The circumaural cans are said to be designed and engineered in-house, though they do look similar to Logitech UE's over-ears. As we understand it, the "crushing sensation" is handled by a vibrating unit inside of each earcup that's independent from its actual 40mm speaker drivers. Impressively, we're told that the lowend will still pump out if the battery dies unlike similar offerings, such as Sony's Pulse gaming headset. An on-earcup control lets you dial in your preferred level of wub, and the earcups can collapse and rotate for storage. Naturally, a detachable 3.5mm cable with an inline remote / mic is also included. Expect these to hit shelves during March clad in your choice of black, white or red for a cool 100 bones. That's all we've got for now, so keep it locked to our coverage of the show while we try to spot 'em ourselves.

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]]> bassbassheadcrusherexclusiveheadphonesskullcandyskullcrusher Tue, 08 Jan 2013 18:50:00 -0500 21|20422409 <![CDATA[Sony ships new Extra Bass headphone lineup to the US, delivers that Direct Vibe to your brain]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/03/sony-ships-new-extra-bass-headphone-lineup-to-the-us/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/03/sony-ships-new-extra-bass-headphone-lineup-to-the-us/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/03/sony-ships-new-extra-bass-headphone-lineup-to-the-us/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Sony ships new Extra Bass headphone lineup to the US, delivers that Direct Vibe to your brain

If you'd like your Sony headphones to be a little less judgmental, we've got good news. The company's MDR-XB400, MDR-XB600 and MDR-XB800 Extra Bass headphones, along with the MDR-XB60EX in-ears, have arrived in the US for those who want low-end frequencies without the talent show branding. All four carry Sony's newer Advanced Direct Vibe to emphasize the sub-bass notes of "today's music styles" (read: electronic and hip-hop) as well as a serrated cord that keeps the cord tangling to a minimum. Working your way up the range mostly improves the frequency range, which starts at an already bass-heavy 5Hz to 22kHz in the XB400 and scales up to a tooth-rattling 3Hz to 28kHz for the XB800; you'll also see the sensitivity jump from 100dB/mW to 106. Provided you don't mind tweaking software to occasionally recover some treble, the entire collection is ready to wobble your head at prices that range from $60 for the starter XB400 headphones to $150 for the XB800.

Gallery: Sony Extra Bass over-ear headphones

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Source: Sony (XB400), (XB600), (XB800), (XB60EX)

]]> advanced direct vibeAdvancedDirectVibeaudiobassextra bassExtraBassheadphonesin earin-earInEarmdr-xb400mdr-xb600mdr-xb60exmdr-xb800minipostover earover-earOverEarportable audioPortableAudiosonyxb400xb600xb60exxb800 Wed, 03 Oct 2012 01:11:00 -0400 21|20339830 <![CDATA[Vox jams guitar amps into Audio-Technica headphones, dubs them Amphones (ears-on)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/18/vox-amphones-audio-technica-guitar-amp-headphones/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/18/vox-amphones-audio-technica-guitar-amp-headphones/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/18/vox-amphones-audio-technica-guitar-amp-headphones/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments VOX jams 'guitar amps' into Audio Technica headphones, dubs them Amphones keep the shredding to your ears for $100

Guitarists and Bassists have many tools at their disposal for practicing fresh news licks without disturbing others around them. One of our favorites is Vox's AmPlug -- a guitar amp-modeling dongle that plugs into your instrument's 1/4-inch jack, allowing you to connect headphones and an MP3 player to practice privately. Building on the idea, Vox worked with Audio-Technica to simply embed the AmPlug in a new line of headphones, dubbing them Amphones. The company quietly put the cans up on its site recently, and it's now officially ready to shout out loud about them.

Guitarists can choose from AC-30 (British crunch), Lead (hi-gain) and Twin (clean) variants, and bassists can snag the Bass version, which is based on Vox's AC100. Just like the AmPlug, each Amphone features volume dials -- sadly, these don't go to 11 -- for setting gain, volume and tone, along with a fourth for a built-in effect (compression for the Bass and reverb with the AC30, for example). A duo of triple AAs power the cans and, as you'd expect, the 'phones have a 3.5mm jack for hooking in external sources as well as a 1/4 adapter to plug into your axe. These Vox-styled units will be available in the US sometime in October for $100 a pop (double the cost of an AmPlug). Hungering for more already? We were able to give a pre-production version of the AC30 model a brief run, and you'll find our initial impressions after the break.

Gallery: Vox Amphones ears-on

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]]> ac100ac30amphoneamphonesamplugaudio technicaAudioTechnicabassbass ampBassAmpguitarguitar ampGuitarAmphands-onheadphonesleadmusicpractice toolPracticeToolrocktwinvox Tue, 18 Sep 2012 11:00:00 -0400 21|20303859 <![CDATA[Sony and Simon Cowell intro X Factor-themed MDR-X10, celebrity headphones officially jump the shark for $300]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/10/sony-simon-cowell-mdr-x10-x-factor-headphones/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/10/sony-simon-cowell-mdr-x10-x-factor-headphones/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/10/sony-simon-cowell-mdr-x10-x-factor-headphones/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Sony and Simon Cowell intro XFactorthemed MDRX10, celebrity headphones officially jump the shark for $300

We're still wrapping our heads around this, but Sony and Simon Cowell have officially decided to join the celebrity-endorsed headphone bandwagon. Dubbed as the MDR-X10, the X Factor-themed cans are certainly late to the party, but the vibrant red and silver color theme will ensure they get noticed -- and we're not saying that's a good thing. $300 snags you the extra-sparkly circumaural earmuffs, an even more sparkly case and a duo of flat, tangle-resistant locking cables (one of which features a "made for iDevice" inline remote and mic). Unsurprisingly, the X10 is geared toward pumping out gobs of bass, being essentially a re-badge of the likes of Sony's XB800 from its Extra Bass headphone lineup. We had the opportunity to give Cowell's new headgear a fair amount of listening time, so jump past the break where we'll judge its brief audition.

Gallery: Sony and Simon Cowell MBR-X10 X-Factor headphones

Gallery: Sony MDR-XB headphone range hands-on

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Source: Sony

]]> basscelebrityextra bassExtraBasshands-onheadphonesjumping the sharkJumpingTheSharkmdr-x10simon cowellsimon cowell headphonesSimonCowellSimonCowellHeadphonessonysony extra basssony xbSonyExtraBassSonyXbtalent showTalentShowuglyx factorxb400xb600xb900XFactorxfactor headphonesXfactorHeadphones Mon, 10 Sep 2012 08:00:00 -0400 21|20319642 <![CDATA[Sony PlayStation Pulse Wireless Stereo Headset Elite Edition hands-on]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/08/sony-playstation-pulse-wireless-stereo-headset-elite-edition-han/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/08/sony-playstation-pulse-wireless-stereo-headset-elite-edition-han/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/08/sony-playstation-pulse-wireless-stereo-headset-elite-edition-han/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Sony PlayStation Pulse Wireless Stereo Headset Elite Edition handson

Aside from the PlayStation Move Racing Wheel and Wonderbook, Sony has one more accessory to show off at E3 -- the Pulse Wireless Stereo Headset Elite Edition. Naturally, we hunted down this peripheral aimed at all-things audio to check it out for ourselves. The PWSHEE is the company's second full-on PS3 headset to date, expanding on what it offered with its Wireless Stereo Headset from last year. As we're told, the headset is also ushering in a new Pulse moniker for its PlayStation oriented ear-blasters, although there's no word on what we can expect down the line. For now, this unit packs a lot on paper for its $150 price, touting key features like 7.1 virtual surround sound, PS Vita and cellphone compatibility (thanks to a detachable cable with inline remote / mic), BassImpact technology for massive low-end pulse (get it?), audio profiles, higher-fidelity drivers than the WSH and hidden noise-cancelling microphones for chatting. Does it have the potential to live up to its hype and one-up its $80 predecessor? Join us past the break for our initial impressions.

Gallery: Sony PlayStation Wireless Stereo Headset Pulse Edition

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]]> 7.1audiobassbassimpacte3e3 2012E32012gaminggaming headsetGamingHeadsethands-onheadsetplaystationPS3 SlimPs3SlimpulsePulse Wireless Stereo Headset Elite EditionPulseWirelessStereoHeadsetEliteEditionsceasonySony PlayStation Pulse Wireless Stereo Headset Elite Edition hanSonyPlaystationPulseWirelessStereoHeadsetEliteEditionHands-onsurround soundSurroundSoundvirtual surround soundVirtualSurroundSoundWirelessHd Fri, 08 Jun 2012 00:48:00 -0400 21|20253179 <![CDATA[Sonos' wireless Sub adds extra thump to your Sonos system for $700 (ears-on)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/sonos-sub-wireless-subwoofer/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/sonos-sub-wireless-subwoofer/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/sonos-sub-wireless-subwoofer/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Image

Although we generally raved about the performance of Sonos' Play:3 wireless HiFi speakers, one of our chief complaints rested in their slightly muddy bass output. Folks who've felt similarly should be pleased to know that the company has unveiled its first subwoofer, dubbed Sonos Sub. This $700 bass-dropper works wirelessly with your existing Sonos speakers, requiring a quick a setup within the app to ensure it's in-phase and putting out an adequate level of volume. You'll only find a single cable and switch for power on the outside, while looking through its center reveals a duo of "force-cancelling" drivers. Two internal air-ports also flow from top to bottom to aid in the unit's bass reproduction.

We gave a pre-production unit a very brief listen with a stereo array of Sonos Play:3s and came out fairly impressed. The speakers are no slouches on their own, but there's no denying the extra power a sub can add to the HiFi boxes. Measuring in at 15.8 x 6.2 x 15 inches (402 x 158 x 380mm) the Sub dwarf's even the larger Play:5, but a Sonos rep let us know it ensures it'll cover a range of spaces -- not mention folks using the Connect:Amp with their own HiFi speakers (Sonos' Connect, ZP90 and ZP80 aren't compatible, however). We got pleasing results from our unit planted on a table a few feet away from any walls, and the system didn't show any signs or shaking or rattling. The Sub can thankfully rest sideways for placement under some couches, but you'll likely want to "set it and forget it" since it weighs about 36 pounds. Our only displeasure rests in the glossy finish -- a magnet for fingerprints and dust -- but we're told a non-gloss version will be offered later for $100 less. You'll be able to pick up this wub-maker come June 19, so check out the video and press release after the break for more info in the meantime.

Gallery: Sonos Sub (eyes-on)

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]]> androidbassconnect:amphands-onhifihome audioHomeAudioiosmulti-room audioMulti-roomAudioplay:5sonossonos subsonos subwooferSonosSubSonosSubwooferstreamingstreaming musicStreamingMusicsubsubwoofervideowireless audiowireless hifiWirelessAudioWirelessHifiwub Tue, 22 May 2012 10:20:00 -0400 21|20242520 <![CDATA[Purdue University creates 'bass' powered medical implant, knows where it hertz]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/29/purdue-university-creates-bass-powered-medical-implant-knows/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/29/purdue-university-creates-bass-powered-medical-implant-knows/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/29/purdue-university-creates-bass-powered-medical-implant-knows/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments We've seen all kinds of medical implants over the years, but none that had a musical preference -- until now. Researchers at Purdue University have created a pressure sensitive microelectromechanical system (MEMS) that uses sound waves as an energy source. The proof-of-concept has a vibrating cantilever that's receptive to sound -- or music -- in the 200 - 500Hz frequency spectrum, which is towards the bottom end of the audible range. The subcutaneous implant converts the low-frequency vibrations into energy, and then stores it in a capacitor. Once the cantilever stops vibrating, it sends an electrical charge to a sensor and takes a pressure reading, the result is then transmitted out via radio waves for monitoring purposes. The immediate real world applications include diagnosing and treating incontinence, but we're already wondering if that self-powering mp3 player implant could finally become a reality?

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]]> audiobasscantileverhertzhzimplantlow midslow-frequencyLowMidsmedical implantMedicalImplantMEMSmicroelectromechanical systemMicroelectromechanicalSystemmidsmusicpurduePurdue UniversityPurdueUniversityradiosoundsubcutaneous Sun, 29 Jan 2012 05:43:00 -0500 21|20159123 <![CDATA[Sony unveils Walkman B170 Series, promises to boost your bass]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/sony-unveils-walkman-b170-series-promises-to-boost-your-bass/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/sony-unveils-walkman-b170-series-promises-to-boost-your-bass/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/sony-unveils-walkman-b170-series-promises-to-boost-your-bass/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Sony has unveiled a slate of new Walkman MP3 players today, with the launch of its B170 Series. Available in both 2GB and 4GB varieties, these new devices weigh in at just 28 grams, but apparently pack plenty of punch, providing up to 18 hours of listening on a full charge. If you're pressed for time, though, you can just plug it in for three minutes, which, in turn, will give you a full 90 minutes of listening time. There's also an onboard equalizer, voice recorder and USB port, as well as a dedicated "Bass Boost" that, as you may have guessed, will boost your bass. No word yet on pricing, but Sony says its new Walkmans will be available sometime this month. Full PR after the break.

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]]> audioavailabilityb170bassequalizerlaunchmp3mp3 playerMp3Playermusicsonysony walkmanSony Walkman B Seriessony walkman b170 seriesSonyWalkmanSonyWalkmanB170SeriesSonyWalkmanBSeriessound Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:21:00 -0500 21|20152933 <![CDATA[Monster and Beats Electronics discontinue partnership, audiophiles rejoice]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/monster-and-beats-electronics-discontinue-partnership-/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/monster-and-beats-electronics-discontinue-partnership-/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/monster-and-beats-electronics-discontinue-partnership-/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Color us surprised, but word on the street is that Monster and Beats By Dr. Dre are soon going to be a thing of the past. After years of pumping out fashion-forward, bass and treble pumping headphones that (debatably) changed the landscape of personal audio products -- and spawned a slew of imitators -- both companies have reportedly decided not to renew their five-year contract. Businessweek notes that two sources have confirmed that disagreements over "revenue share" and "who deserved the most credit for the line's success" stemmed the decision between the companies -- not surprisingly, Beats Electronics wanted more of both.

In the followup, Monster will pump out eight new headphone lineups this year independently. Monster is noted to have brought in 60% of its own revenue from Beats by Dre, and now plans to shift its focus on older demographics, such as executive types, which the brand never exactly catered to. Notably, Businessweek also states that Beats Electronics will retain the rights to the headphone's iconic design, sound-signature and branding. Considering Beats' partnerships reign far with companies like HP and HTC, things probably won't be all doom and gloom for the company -- but the amount of time left to pick up your very own JustBeats likely just got very slim.

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]]> baby baby babyBabyBabyBabybassbeatsbeats audiobeats by drebeats electronicsBeatsAudioBeatsByDreBeatsElectronicsbieber feverBieberFeverboomby dr dreByDrDredr dreDrDredre drDreDrexpensivefashionheadphonesjustin bieberJustinBieberlady gagaLadyGagaleemonstermonster beatsmonster cableMonsterBeatsMonsterCablep. diddyP.Diddypuff daddyPuffDaddysean combsSeanCombsthump Thu, 12 Jan 2012 20:04:00 -0500 21|20147750 <![CDATA[Visualized CES Edition: Behringer's iNuke Boom speaker dock, a 10,000-watt altar for your iPod]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/visualized-ces-behringer-inuke-boom-10000-watt-dock/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/visualized-ces-behringer-inuke-boom-10000-watt-dock/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/visualized-ces-behringer-inuke-boom-10000-watt-dock/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
No word on whether it goes to eleven.

Edgar Alvarez contributed to this report.

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]]> 10000applebassbehringerbehringer inuke boomBehringerInukeBoomboomcesces 2012Ces2012dubstephugeiNukeiphoneipodloudlowmarketingmassivespeakerspeaker dockSpeakerDock Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:37:00 -0500 21|20146843 <![CDATA[TOSY and Justin Bieber announce mRobo: we go hands-on, dance-off (video)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/tosy-justin-bieber-announce-mrobo-we-go-hands-on-dance-off-v/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/tosy-justin-bieber-announce-mrobo-we-go-hands-on-dance-off-v/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/tosy-justin-bieber-announce-mrobo-we-go-hands-on-dance-off-v/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Beethoven's Fifth. Michelangelo's Pietà. Plato's Republic. Cornerstones of human civilization, to be sure, but they all pale in comparison to what we saw today at CES: TOSY's new mRobo robot, inspired by none other than the Cultural Colossus of our time, Justin Bieber. The Vietnamese manufacturer and pubescent Prince have just taken the wraps off their latest collaboration: a petite, portable speaker-robot that dances -- nay, transcends -- just like his only slightly larger progenitor counterpart. When in speaker mode, the mRobo weighs in at just 3.3 pounds, stands a little under eight inches tall, and boasts 2GB of internal memory. Its integrated speaker pumps out the jams at bass levels of 40Hz, but the real magic happens once the music starts playing, automatically prompting the system to transform into an 18-inch tall robot and start dancing. Unfortunately, the bot is still in prototype mode, but it's expected to retail for about $200 when it launches during the fall of 2012.

Today, though, we were lucky enough to get a sneak peak of the mRobo, courtesy of a mic'd-up Messiah with sweepy bangs and a leather jacket. Upon taking the stage to roars of applause and Jelly Bean sunshowers, Bieber went on to do a brief demo of the bot, displaying its ability to sync its dance moves to whatever tunes blare out of its abdomen speaker -- in this case, Billie Jean. The mRobo looked admittedly clumsy at times, and was especially awkward when onstage with the teen phenom, but, as TOSY repeatedly reminded us, it's still in prototype phase. (Bieber, for his part, did a good job of looking completely awestruck throughout much of the experience.) Before descending from his bubblegum pulpit, Bieber reminded his acolytes to "follow your dreams." Ours, at least, have just been realized. Follow yours past the break, straight to our hands-on video.

Mat Smith contracted Bieber Fever from this report.

Gallery: Tosy mRobo launch with Justin Bieber

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]]> audiobaby baby babyBabyBabyBabybassbelieberbieber feverBieberFeverbotcesces 2012Ces2012dancedancingdemodreamsjustin bieberJustinBiebermrobotmusicOMGOMGOMGportable speakerPortableSpeakerprototyperobotsoftwarespeakertosytruthvideowisdom Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:18:00 -0500 21|20146536 <![CDATA[Soundmatters foxLo subwoofer adds umph to your FoxL v2 Bluetooth speaker, 'fits in your palm']]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/ces-soundmatters-foxlo-subwoofer-adds-umph-to-your-foxl-v2/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/ces-soundmatters-foxlo-subwoofer-adds-umph-to-your-foxl-v2/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/ces-soundmatters-foxlo-subwoofer-adds-umph-to-your-foxl-v2/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments

Soundmatters may not be the first company to ever introduce a subwoofer with a small footprint, but at this year's CES, its new foxLo is taking the claim of being the "world's first palm-sized" on. The 25-watt unit can hook into the subwoofer output of a foxL V2 Bluetooth speakers or any other devices with 3.5mm outputs, thanks to its "full pass audio out" jack. Aside from injecting low-end into your mini-rig with its "Magnetic Drive woofer," the 'Lo can also recharge your gadgets with its built-in USB port. Sadly, however, the gizmo itself only operates on wall-power, putting a damper on any mobility offered by its Bluetooth brethren. Operation limited to a volume control for dialing in an optimal amount of bass, and an LED to indicate power. If you're already hungering to add on a thumpy fidelity boost to your smaller speakers (and refuse to be swoon by a solid set of headphones), the foxLo's set to go on sale this spring for about $149. Full press release after the break.

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]]> bassbluetoothbluetooth audioBluetoothAudiocesces 2012Ces2012foxlfoxl v2foxloFoxlV2jamboxjawbonelow endLowEndlowsmusicportable audioportable sub wooferPortableAudioPortableSubWoofersoundsound matterssoundmatterssoundmatters foxloSoundmattersFoxlospeakersubsubwooferwoofer Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:18:00 -0500 21|20140406 <![CDATA[Twelve South BassJump 2 USB Subwoofer now available, further bumps your Mac's thump (update)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/twelve-south-bassjump-2-usb-subwoofer-now-available-further-bum/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/twelve-south-bassjump-2-usb-subwoofer-now-available-further-bum/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/twelve-south-bassjump-2-usb-subwoofer-now-available-further-bum/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
At a glance, one could confuse Twelve South's BassJump 2 for a 2011 Mac Mini -- don't be fooled though, this USB subwoofer aims for sound that's anything but. Much like the original BassJump, this guy's aimed at aiding MacBook speakers by adding extra low end boost, and employing proprietary software to keep it in all in check. Improving on the original, however, the BassJump 2 pumps out eight extra decibels of volume and comes with "remastered software," notably featuring iMac and Thunderbolt Display support. If it piques your fancy, the BassJump 2 is now available for about $70 -- much like a pair of utilitarian Grado headphones (or similar), but we digress. Full press release past the break.

Update: For clarification, the BassJump 2 is physically identical the first. According to Twelve South, its updated software is the key new feature and can be downloaded for free if you already own a BassJump.

[Thanks, Brendan]

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]]> appleaudiobassbass jumpbass jump 2BassJumpBassJump2MacmacbooksoundspeakerssubwooferThunderbolt DisplayThunderboltDisplaytwelve southTwelve South BassJump 2 USB SubwooferTwelveSouthTwelveSouthBassjump2UsbSubwooferusbusb subwooferUsbSubwoofer Wed, 26 Oct 2011 03:28:00 -0400 21|20090459 <![CDATA[HTC Sensation XE gets official, packing 1.5GHz dual-core CPU and Beats Audio]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/htc-sensation-xe-gets-official-packing-1-5ghz-dual-core-cpu-and/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/htc-sensation-xe-gets-official-packing-1-5ghz-dual-core-cpu-and/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/htc-sensation-xe-gets-official-packing-1-5ghz-dual-core-cpu-and/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
The rumors can be laid to rest, because HTC has officially announced its Sensation XE handset, replete with some upgraded specs and Beats Audio. Powered by a 1.5GHz dual-core processor, this Android device features a 4.3-inch touchscreen with qHD (540 X 960) resolution and boasts a larger 1730mAh battery that promises prolonged run times. As the first smartphone produced under HTC's partnership with Beats Audio, this special edition Sensation also ships with a special pair of Beats by Dr. Dre headphones, along with an 8GB or 16GB microSD card and remote control that allows users to flip through tracks of take calls without ever reaching inside their pockets. Once these headphones are plugged in, the phone will automatically activate a Beats-optimized sound profile that, according to HTC, will deliver fuller bass, sharper vocals and broader range. The Sensation XE is slated to launch in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East sometime this month, though price and a possible North America launch date remain unclear. Scurry past the break for more details in the full press release, along with an extra shot of Dre's in-ear headphones.

Update: We've just been ears-on.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

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]]> 1.5ghz16gb1730mah4.3 inch4.3Inch540 x 960540X9608gbandroidaudiobassbatterybattery lifeBatteryLifebeatsbeats audiobeats by dr. dreBeatsAudioBeatsByDr.Drecpudisplaydr. dreDr.Dredual-coredual-core cpuDual-coreCpuheadphoneshtchtc sensationhtc sensation xehtc senseHtcSensationHtcSensationXeHtcSensein-ear headphonesIn-earHeadphonesmicrosdmobilepostcrossmusicprocessorqhdresolutionsensationsensation xeSensationXesmartphonesoundsound profileSoundProfiletouchscreenvocals Wed, 14 Sep 2011 05:55:00 -0400 21|20042371 <![CDATA[Razer's Electra headphones pump out bass, keep your voice 'inline' for $60]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/razers-electra-headphones-pump-out-bass-keep-your-voice-inlin/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/razers-electra-headphones-pump-out-bass-keep-your-voice-inlin/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/razers-electra-headphones-pump-out-bass-keep-your-voice-inlin/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Are you a gamer and bass-lover on a tight budget looking for a new headset? Razer's Electra headphones might just be your ticket for dubstepping through your next WoW raid. These stereo cans sport a 40mm driver in each earcup tuned to pump out lows, along with leatherette earpads to help keep 'em comfortable while aiding in passive noise isolation. To sweeten the deal, you'll also get two detachable cables, one of which has an inline mic; perfect for on-the-go phone calls while your heading to 7-11 for Slurpee-fuel, or a bit of TeamSpeaking when your Carcharias get lost. The Electras will be available come this October, but if you can't get past the green highlights we don't blame ya. Full PR past the break.

Gallery: Razer Electra headphones

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]]> bassgaminggaming headsetGamingHeadsetheadphoneheadphonesheadsetinline micInlineMicmusicrazerrazer electrarazer electra headphonesRazerElectraRazerElectraHeadphonesvideogames Sat, 30 Jul 2011 01:52:00 -0400 21|20003889 <![CDATA[BOSS's Micro BR-80 digital multitrack and field recorder fits the band and studio in your hand]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/bosss-micro-br-80-digital-multitrack-and-field-recorder-fits-th/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/bosss-micro-br-80-digital-multitrack-and-field-recorder-fits-th/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/bosss-micro-br-80-digital-multitrack-and-field-recorder-fits-th/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Boss Micro BR BR-80

Who needs a recording studio -- or even a full band -- for that next demo? Grab your guitar, BOSS' latest portable Micro BR digital recorder and a fistful of ego for a do-it-yourself session that only a mother could love. The BR-80 lets you record two tracks at once and offers eight tracks of playback along with 64 virtual tracks to mix and master any epics you're dreaming up. For hookup, it's packing aux and 1/4-inch inputs, a headphone out, and even a USB port to interface with a computer. You can also record using its onboard stereo field mics if you lose your cables at a gig. Inside, it's packing four and six-string COSM effects, DNA from its VE-20 to spice up your vocals, and eBand options. There's support for WAV and MP3 formats, but better yet, SD cards up to 32GB giving you a whopping 550 hours of recording time to lay those burnin' licks down. It's currently available and shipping for about 300 bones -- eRoadies not included. Full PR after the break.

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]]> bandbassbossBoss Micro BR BR-80 Digital RecorderBossMicroBrBr-80DigitalRecorderbossusbr 80br-80 digital recorderBr-80DigitalRecorderBr80COSMdrumseBandguitarJS-8micro brMicroBrmp3musicianrecordingrockrolandSONAR X1 LESonarX1LeSongwritingtrack recordertrackingTrackRecorderVE-20WAV Sun, 24 Jul 2011 07:35:00 -0400 21|19998152 <![CDATA[Pioneer debuts new Sound Wing HVT speakers, novel tech touted within]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/25/pioneer-debuts-new-sound-wing-hvt-speakers-novel-tech-touted-wi/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/25/pioneer-debuts-new-sound-wing-hvt-speakers-novel-tech-touted-wi/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/25/pioneer-debuts-new-sound-wing-hvt-speakers-novel-tech-touted-wi/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments There's a ton of gadgetry that goes into speakers, but the notable thing here is that the Pioneer folks have begun using HVT, or Horizontal-Vertical Transforming technology -- but more on that in sec. This beauty is engineered to reduce unwanted vibration and preserve bass caliber while outputting 100W of sound. Featuring a double diaphragm packaged close together, the Sound Wing gives off omnidirectional sound -- that's 360 degrees of noise. And thanks to HVT, the coils within the speaker have been rearranged to reduce the wasted space in traditional speakers -- though for some reason this particular unit still measures a portly 109mm thick. Seeing that the tech Pioneer has implemented here is novel, we're interested to see how this thing will sound in the real world. You'll find the Sound Wing in Japan for ¥41,000 (about $507) come June.

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]]> basscoildiaphragmhorizontalhorizontal-vertial transformingHorizontal-vertialTransforminghvtjapanjuneomnidirectionomnidirectionalpioneerqualityS-HVH0010soundsound wingsoundsSoundWingspeakerspeakerstransformingveriticalvibrationvoice coilVoiceCoilwing Fri, 25 Mar 2011 15:50:00 -0400 21|19891282 <![CDATA[IK Multimedia ships AmpliTube iRig iPhone interface adapter]]> http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/08/ik-multimedia-ships-amplitube-irig-iphone-interface-adapter/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/08/ik-multimedia-ships-amplitube-irig-iphone-interface-adapter/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/08/ik-multimedia-ships-amplitube-irig-iphone-interface-adapter/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments We know you've been waiting on pins and needles, and at long last, the gap between announcement and "now shipping" has been closed. IK Multimedia has just revealed that its AmpliTube iRig adapter is shipping, enabling iPod touch, iPad and iPhone users to jack their guitar or bass directly into their iDevice and access all sorts of effects. From there, users can pipe the audio to a pair of headphones or a guitar amp, theoretically allowing your handheld to supplant your mess of pedals. We're also told that the iRig can be used with line level signal sources such as synthesizers, keyboards or mixing consoles, so there's that. It's available as we speak for $39.99 (or €29.99 overseas), and users can expect an iPad-specific version of the AmpliTube app to be released in the near future.

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]]> accessoryadapterAmpliTubeAmpliTube iRigAmplitubeIrigapplebasscontrollereffectsguitarIK MultimediaIkMultimediainstrumentiPadiPhoneiPod TouchiRigmusicnow availablenow shippingNowAvailableNowShippingperipheralshipshipping Thu, 08 Jul 2010 09:58:00 -0400 21|19545088 <![CDATA[Bang & Olufsen announces BeoLab 11 subwoofer for mid-May]]> http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/14/bang-and-olufsen-announces-beolab-11-subwoofer-for-mid-may/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/14/bang-and-olufsen-announces-beolab-11-subwoofer-for-mid-may/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/14/bang-and-olufsen-announces-beolab-11-subwoofer-for-mid-may/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Not getting enough "sub" with your "woofer"? Tweeters tweeting all over the place, ruining your enjoyment of the low-end? Finding yourself unable to fully appreciate your King Tubby LPs? We hate that! And so does Bang & Olufsen, fine purveyor of home audio equipment we can't afford. The company's newest, the BeoLab 11 subwoofer, is vaguely pornographic looking, albeit in a surreal way (please try and control yourselves in the comments, people). This bad boy promises superlative bass quality in a "strong sculptural presence." At the very least, the designers here are trying -- which is more than we can say for almost every other subwoofer on the market (though we really did like the Rubik's Cube). Composed of two 6.5-inch drivers facing each other in an aluminum shell, this bad boy will handle the low frequencies (below 300Hz) and push 200W of bass in yo' face. Available in North America by mid-May 2010 in silver anodized aluminum or white; black, dark gray, red, blue, and golden anodized aluminum should be available shortly thereafter. Prices begin at $2,000. PR after the break.

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]]> audiobang and olufsenbang and olufsen beolab 11bang olufsenBangAndOlufsenBangAndOlufsenBeolab11BangOlufsenbassbeolabbeolab 11Beolab11dubhigh endHighEndhome audiohome theaterHomeAudioHomeTheaterspeakerssubwoofer Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:51:00 -0400 21|19439498 <![CDATA[Mad Catz's wireless Fender Rock Band bass to ship soon]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/29/mad-catzs-wireless-fender-rock-band-bass-to-ship-soon/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/29/mad-catzs-wireless-fender-rock-band-bass-to-ship-soon/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/29/mad-catzs-wireless-fender-rock-band-bass-to-ship-soon/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Just when you'd given up all hope that Mad Catz would ever ship its Fender Precision Bass for Rock Band, in flies this. If you'll recall, said axe was originally introduced to the world in September of last year, and with a certain Beatles-inspired bass set to ship in the ninth month of this year, Mad Catz obviously felt the time was right to cease its dilly-dallying. According to company CEO Darren Richardson, the wireless Fender bass for Rock Band will ship "later this month," which should mean that it'll be hitting store shelves over the weekend. In related news, the company has inked a multi-year licensing agreement with Microsoft that will allow it to "manufacture, market and sell Xbox 360-branded wireless specialty videogame controllers." Fun for them, yeah?

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]]> agreementbasscontrollerFenderFender bassFenderBassinstrumentmicrosoftmusicperipheralperipheralsrock bandRockBandxboxxbox 360Xbox360 Fri, 29 May 2009 11:41:00 -0400 21|19051587 <![CDATA[Paul McCartney's Rock Band Höfner bass gets pictured, lacks genuineness]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/12/paul-mccartneys-rock-band-hofner-bass-gets-pictured-lacks-genu/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/12/paul-mccartneys-rock-band-hofner-bass-gets-pictured-lacks-genu/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/12/paul-mccartneys-rock-band-hofner-bass-gets-pictured-lacks-genu/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Sigh. It's like making a Jag-Stang for righties -- it just ain't right, kids. Hot on the heels of seeing the other special edition Rock Band axes designed for the forthcoming Beatles title comes this, Sir Paul McCartney's Rock Band Höfner bass replica. At a glance, most everything looks to be legitimate, but considering that it's clearly tailored for those who lean right, it'll never be authentic in our minds. Yeah, that's our southpaw pride we're wearing on our sleeves -- what of it?

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]]> bassbeatlesbeatles rock bandBeatlesRockBandcontrollerGretschGretsch duo-jetGretschDuo-jetguitarhofnerinstrumentmusicreplicarock bandrock band beatlesRockBandRockBandBeatlesViolin BassViolinBass Tue, 12 May 2009 11:22:00 -0400 21|1543584 <![CDATA[Polk snips the cord on PSWi225 portable wireless subwoofer]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/20/polk-snips-the-cord-on-pswi225-portable-wireless-subwoofer/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/20/polk-snips-the-cord-on-pswi225-portable-wireless-subwoofer/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/20/polk-snips-the-cord-on-pswi225-portable-wireless-subwoofer/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Haven't you heard? Wireless subwoofers are all the rage right now, man. Polk Audio is following the lead of Infinity and a gaggle of others by introducing the PSWi225, a "portable" cord-free subwoofer that can be added in to any home theater / stereo setup with utmost ease. The earth-shaker supports RF wireless signal transmission and delivers a 40Hz to 180Hz frequency response from the floor-firing enclosure. The unit itself measures in at 12- x 13- x 12-inches and houses a rugged long-throw Dynamic Balance co-polymer driver with Butyl Rubber surround. Curiously, there's no mention of the speaker size, though we are told that an active crossover system is included for those who like to fiddle. Check it this March for $399 (MSRP).

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]]> audiobasshdmusicotherspolkpolk audioPolkAudioPSWi225rfspeakerspeakerssubwooferwireless subwooferWirelessSubwoofer Tue, 20 Jan 2009 12:59:00 -0500 21|1433264 <![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: What's the best home theater subwoofer under $500?]]> http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/03/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-home-theater-subwoofer-under-5/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/03/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-home-theater-subwoofer-under-5/ http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/03/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-home-theater-subwoofer-under-5/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
So, you're one of those "build your own multi-channel surround system" folks, are you? If so, we'll bet you're a lot like Jeff (and you didn't even know it).

"I'm in the process of assembling a 5.1 system for my den, but I'm really concerned about making the right decision on a subwoofer. I'm putting a cap of $500 on it, but I want the most boom (and tightest boom) for my buck. I haven't purchased my towers or surrounds yet, so I'm open to any brand / model / etc."

Ah, starting with the low-end, are we? Probably not a bad place to begin, quite honestly, and we're hoping that you readers can chime in with a few recommendations for this here bass lover. Rumble away in comments below.

Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

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]]> askask engadget dhask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdbassfeatureshdspeakerspeakerssubsubwoofer Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:00:00 -0500 21|1387656 <![CDATA[Wireless ButtKicker kit ready to rumble your posterior]]> http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/17/wireless-buttkicker-kit-ready-to-rumble-your-posterior/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/17/wireless-buttkicker-kit-ready-to-rumble-your-posterior/ http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/17/wireless-buttkicker-kit-ready-to-rumble-your-posterior/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Earlier this year, we were fortunate (or unfortunate, depending on perspective) enough to get our rumps on one of the famed ButtKickers. For those unaware, these devices are meant for installation underneath a seat or sofa in order to provide chair-rumbling effects to help you "feel" the film. Now, the Guitammer Company is making them even easier to install by cutting the wires, bringing low frequency audio transducers just inches from your derriere without any cords necessary. The above pictured kit will go on sale next Friday (yes, that's Black Friday for you Americans) for under $300 on Amazon -- are you really ready to rumble?

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]]> amazonbassblack fridayblack friday 2008BlackFridayBlackFriday2008ButtKickerGuitammerGuitammer CompanyGuitammerCompanyspeakerspeakerssubwoofertransducerwireless buttkickerwireless speakerwireless speakersWirelessButtkickerWirelessSpeakerWirelessSpeakers Mon, 17 Nov 2008 10:40:00 -0500 21|1374248